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A similar question posed in an industry-trend study by Motor Age found that 37 percent of Automotive Technicians would be retired or in a completely different industry in five years. Among the factors and trends that support the case for a growing need for technicians are the following:
- There is a 100 percent placement rate for automotive students completing training programs.
- Light vehicle registrations continue to rise, especially for those vehicles more than five years old.
- More miles are being driven, both per vehicle and in total; the average age of vehicles is rising (9.1 years).
- Higher technical skills are required of technicians.
- The industry has a negative image that often discourages people from becoming Automotive Technicians.
- There is greater competition for young people from other industries.
- More technicians are retiring.
What are actual working conditions like in the Automotive Field? Automotive technicians find work in dealerships, service stations, automotive sales, independent shops and specialty shops. Most automotive technicians work a standard 40-hour week, but many self-employed technicians work longer hours. To satisfy customer service needs, many technicians provide evening and weekend service. Generally, technicians work indoors in well-ventilated and well-lighted repair shops. Most automotive technicians use computer diagnostic equipment to diagnose technical problems. BACK TO TOP
How well are Automotive Technicians paid? According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there is a shortage of about 60,000 automotive technicians nation-wide today. A high-tech career in this field offers mobility and job security. The average starting wage is $8.50 to $12.50 per hour, and the average journeyman wage is about $60,000 per year. Many techs are paid on a commission rate. Opportunities for employment, high wages, and career advancement have never been greater in the automotive field. In Arizona, job openings for Automotive Technicians are expected to increase 3% over the next two to three years, creating approximately 680 jobs annually. Automotive Technicians earn an average of $10.75 to $19.75 an hour for an average annual salary of $22,600 to $41,000. BACK TO TOP
How long will the Automotive Service Technology Program be? The Automotive Services Technology Program will be 24 months – consisting of four full semesters – with 60 credit hours required for successful completion of the Automotive Services Technology Program requirements. BACK TO TOP
How many students are accepted into the program each year? Sixteen students will be accepted each Fall semester. BACK TO TOP
Where will the Automotive Services Technology Program be offered? All of the course requirements for completion of the Automotive Services Technology AGS Degree will be offered at the Bullhead City Campus. BACK TO TOP
How much will the Automotive Service Technology Program cost? A $500 per semester Automotive Service Technology program fee will cover all clinical and specialty fees associated with this program. Students are also responsible for general tuition, textbooks and living expenses. The college works closely with each student to secure student financial aid and assistance in locating competitive financing. Financial Aid advisors are available on all campuses or can be contacted at 928.758.8407. BACK TO TOP
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